Steven Smith who was taking part in the Big Bash League fixture where the Sydney Sixers took on the Sydney Thunder, spoke during the match regarding his potential new role as the opener for Australia’s Test team replacing the retired David Warner.
️ “I’ve been sat there waiting for a long time (when batting at four), and I’m not a good waiter. When you’re opening the batting there’s none of that, you just get out there and get into your business.”– Steve Smith talks about his new role as Test opener pic.twitter.com/PUW1jb5eZD
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) January 12, 2024
During the match, in a conversation with the match commentators, Smith revealed his intentions for the new role. He said,” I’m keen, I think it was a position that became vacant after David Warner left. There have been a lot of talks on who is going to be up there, talking to Ron and Paddy, they were keen to get Green involved and play our best six batters.”
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The batter has recently played in the number four position ever since reinventing himself as a specialist batter for Australia in the red-ball format. Smith added, “I was keen to get up there and I mentioned my name to them a few times and they thought I was micking a bit. They took me seriously in the end and I think with Green coming in, he is suited at number four and I’ve batted in the top of the order a lot at number three and been in the first couple of overs a few times.”
Smith was asked about Watson’s views on him needing a new challenge. Watson in an interview with Fox Sports had said, “Steve Smith opening the batting, he has got the technique, is the challenge he needs.”
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Smith added,” I think since Marnus has been in the team in particular batting at number three and doing a magnificent job, I’ve been sitting and waiting for a long time. At least when you are opening there is none of that you just get out there and into your business. I’m excited by that prospect and yeah that is something that I am looking forward to.”
Australia’s next assignment in the red-ball format will be up against the West Indies which begins at the Adelaide Oval on January 17. Smith could likely be tested in his new role as the batter will aim to be back among the big runs for Australia.
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